Political Prisoners at Evin Prison Continue their Hunger Strike Despite the Fact that One of Their Five Demands Was Met

Sunday August 8th, 2010 – Summary: The 16 political prisoners who began a hunger strike 13 days ago after being transferred to solitary confinement as a result of protesting unacceptable behavior by prison officials, are continuing their hunger strike, despite the fact that one of their demands has been met. The release of Babak Bordbar, photo journalist, was one of the 5 demands of these political prisoners. Bordbar had been transferred to solitary confinement by prison authorities, even though the courts had ordered his release.

The release of Babak Bordbar photo journalist from prison was one of 5 demands made of prison officials by the 16 protesting political prisoners who are continuing their hunger strike for a 13th day. The five demands, conditions upon which they would end their hunger strike are as follows:

1. Full compliance with prisoner rights as described in the prison regulations, in particular refraining from insulting prisoners, undermining their rights and providing access to books and publications.

2. Legal ramifications and penalties for prison authorities and prison guards violating the law, in particular demanding that judicial authorities put an end to unacceptable behavior by prison guards violating prisoner rights, protect the rights of prisoners who have been sent to solitary confinement, and ensure that all those in solitary confinement are transferred to the general prison ward as soon as possible.

3. Immediate and unconditional release of photo journalist Babak Bordbar; a demand that has now been met.

4. Increase in the duration of allotted time for phone calls and improvement in medical and hygienic facilities for every prisoner. Currently the space allocated to each political prisoner at Evin’s ward 350 is less than 1 meter per prisoner. Telephone contacts have been severely restricted and the medical facilities are sub par.

5. Immediate and complete implementation of the law as it pertains to prisoners, ensuring that their rights are protected at all times.